686+ question

[Genetically Swiss]

Can a 686-4 seven shot be converted to a six shot merely by replacing the cylinder with no other modifications? Before you ask why the heck would you do that, I will say it has something to do with the ~fifty 6-shot speed loaders I have...

GS

 

[Neumann]

A new cylinder goes for about $140, not including fitting by a competent gunsmith. You would probably need the barrel refitted, re-coned and refaced - another $80. Most of the timing parts, including the trigger, would be replaced too. Kinda' like George Washington's original axe - with three new heads and five new handles

7-round speed loaders cost about $8 at Midway. That sounds like a better route to me. How many do you need for one IDPA round?

 

[Paulie686]

While I wouldn't count on it, SOMETIMES a Cylinder from one gun WILL just "Drop In" to another gun and Headspace and "Time" correctly.

A friend has two 686-4's--one a traditional six-shooter, the other a seven-shot "Plus" model. He has successfully "Swapped" the cylinders between them many times, and they both shoot fine in the "Swapped" Condition.

He DID, however, CAREFULLY CHECK the Headspace, B/C Gap and Timing BEFORE firing any "Live" ammo to make sure that it was SAFE to do so. Hope this helps. Paulie686.

 

[Revolver King]

I have done this successfully a couple of times in the past without having to make any modifications, but I have also done it and the cylinder wouldn't even come close to fitting. it is the just one of those things you have to try.
Note: I always went from 6 shot to 7shot, not from 7 to 6. That may cause a timing issue if everything else is OK.